Vatican city: Pope Leo XIV concluded 2025 with a New Year's Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, urging Rome to become "a compassionate city that welcomes foreigners, children, the elderly, the vulnerable, and all those in fragile circumstances."
during his homily, the Pope expressed his gratitude for the Holy Year 2025, which saw millions of pilgrims flock to Rome for the Jubilee celebration, held every quarter century. He noted that this year, inaugurated by his predecessor Pope Francis on December 24, 2024, was "a time of grace."
The Pope praised the efforts of the Municipality of Rome and the volunteers who contributed to organizing the reception of visitors and facilitating their passage through the Holy Door, highlighting their role in the success of the Jubilee celebration.